Mezcal vs. Tequila Cocktail Tasting in a Cantina

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and want to add a splash of local culture and flavor to your trip, a mezcal vs. tequila cocktail tasting at a lively cantina offers a fun and educational experience. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on five reviews, combines tasting, entertainment, and a dash of Mexican tradition—all in just about two hours. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply curious about Mexico’s iconic spirits, this outing promises a memorable evening.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to sample both mezcal and tequila side by side, comparing their smoky and sweet profiles, is a real treat. Second, the vibrant setting filled with live music and lively performers heightens the mood, making it more than just a tasting; it’s a cultural celebration. That said, the tour does focus solely on drinks, so if you’re hungry or want a full dinner, you’ll need to plan separately. This tour is ideal for those eager to learn about Mexican spirits in an authentic, festive atmosphere—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a lively night out.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with mezcal and tequila tasting in a colorful cantina.
• Interactive and lively with live entertainment and opportunities for social media selfies.
• Comparison of spirits with 17 tastings, including specialty cocktails.
• Fun dress-up with traditional Mexican costumes and photos.
• Value for money at just under $45 per person, including drinks and entertainment.
• Limited group size (max 15), making it a personalized experience.

An Authentic Mexican Experience in Puerto Vallarta

This tour is a spirited way to dive into Mexico’s iconic beverages—mezcal and tequila—in a setting that is both fun and educational. La Catrina Cantina, the host venue, is situated in the lively Zona Romántica, a neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and friendly atmosphere. The experience is designed to give you a taste (literally) of Mexican mixology, combined with entertainment that keeps the energy high.

What makes this tasting different from just ordering drinks at a bar? First, the interactive element: you’re outfitted with a colorful Mexican costume, perfect for photos and embracing the festive environment. Second, the comparison tasting—you’ll try both spirits neat before moving on to a selection of specialty cocktails. The tour includes 17 tastings, making it more than just a quick shot; this is a thorough exploration of flavors.

The setting itself adds value. As you sip and savor, you’re surrounded by murals of Day of the Dead Catrina, perfect for social media, and the lively performers keep the atmosphere upbeat. The hosts seem well-versed and friendly, with reviews praising their warm hospitality, and the entertainment is described as “outstanding” and “very lively.”

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Atmosphere

The tour starts at La Catrina Cantina on Lázaro Cárdenas Street in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica. The location is accessible via public transportation, and the ambiance is colorful, artistic, and inviting. As you arrive, the staff will help outfit you in a traditional Mexican costume—think bright colors and fun accessories—setting the tone for a lively evening. The visual appeal of murals and festive decor makes it a perfect backdrop for photos.

The Tasting Journey

First, you’ll be introduced to neat tastings of mezcal and tequila, allowing you to compare their distinct profiles. Many people, including one reviewer, noted that they were “swayed away from tequila to the smoky taste of mezcal.” This highlights how exposure to different spirits can change perceptions—something worth trying for any spirits lover or curious beginner.

Next, the “Viva Mexico” cocktail menu comes into play. Here, the spirits are combined with fresh fruits into specialty cocktails, which serve as an excellent way to experience how flavors interact. You’ll enjoy multiple tastings—a total of 17, which is generous for a two-hour session. The variety ensures you’ll find a favorite to take home or revisit later.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Throughout the tasting, lively entertainers perform, adding to the festive feeling. Guests are encouraged to bring their dancing shoes, and many reviews mention the energetic vibe. The performers aren’t just background—they’re an integral part of the experience, engaging guests and creating a joyful environment.

The Final Touch

After all the tastings, the staff will make your favorite cocktail for you to enjoy. This personalized touch helps you walk away with a memorable drink, perhaps even replicating it at home. Tipping is encouraged, which supports the local staff and performers, and adds to the feeling that this is a community-centered experience.

What You Need to Know Before Booking

The price, around $44.57 per person, is quite reasonable considering the number of tastings, the entertainment, and the culture. It’s better than a typical bar crawl, given the guided nature and the inclusion of a variety of spirits and cocktails.

The tour is limited to 15 travelers, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere. The duration of approximately two hours makes it an easy addition to an evening plan, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore more of Puerto Vallarta.

Since the tour ends back at the starting point, you can easily plan dinner afterward, perhaps at one of the many excellent local eateries. Just remember, food is not included, so if you’re hungry, plan for a snack or meal afterward.

Authenticity and Value

We loved how this experience combines learning with entertainment. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding the cultural significance of mezcal and tequila, their differences, and how they’re enjoyed in Mexico. The inclusion of live music and festive costumes elevates what could be a simple tasting into a true celebration of Mexican spirit and style.

The value for money is solid, especially considering the number of tastings and the lively atmosphere. It’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you’re traveling with friends or want a memorable night that’s both cultural and lively.

Who will enjoy this tour?

This experience is best suited for adults looking for a relaxed, lively cultural activity. If you’re interested in spirits, cocktails, or Mexican traditions, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy socializing, music, and a festive environment. Those who want an educational experience combined with entertainment will find this tour well worth the price.

However, if your goal is a full meal or a more subdued tasting experience, you might want to supplement this with dinner afterward. Also, if you’re not a fan of alcohol or live entertainment, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This mezcal and tequila cocktail tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a uniquely festive way to encounter Mexican spirits. It combines interactive tastings with cultural entertainment in a vibrant cantina setting, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a lively, authentic night out. The variety of 17 tastings ensures you’ll experience the spectrum of flavors, from smoky mezcal to sweet cocktails, all while being immersed in a colorful, musical environment.

The tour’s emphasis on authenticity, fun, and education makes it a standout choice for those who want more than just a drink—who want a taste of Mexican culture paired with lively entertainment. It’s especially suited for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to connect with the local scene in a memorable way.

Overall, if you’re after a spirited night filled with good drinks, music, and cultural charm, this tour is a smart, enjoyable option that balances value with authenticity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or minors?
No, this activity is designed for +18 travelers, as it includes alcoholic beverages and tastings.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, making it a manageable and fun addition to an evening in Puerto Vallarta.

What’s included in the price?
You get 17 tastings of spirits and cocktails, plus live entertainment, all in a lively cantina setting.

Is the guide or host involved in the tasting?
While the details aren’t specified, the lively atmosphere suggests that hosts or entertainers play a key role in engaging guests.

Can I expect to take photos?
Absolutely. The colorful murals and costumes make for great photo opportunities, especially if you dress up.

Are there any food options included?
No, food is not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour if you’re hungry.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but dressing up in the provided Mexican costume adds fun and makes for better photos.

This tour brings together the best of Mexican spirits and lively entertainment, making it a memorable night out in Puerto Vallarta for those eager to experience authentic local culture in a fun, social setting.